Hydraulic Riser Clamp Installation Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for installing clamps on risers result in uneven load distribution due to the capstan effect, requiring stronger and stiffer clamps to compensate for force losses, which reduces the clamp's ability to accommodate diameter changes in risers.
Innovation Solution
A tool with hydraulic actuators applies a simultaneous and uniform radial load to each clamping component before securing the clamp to the tubular member, using a frame with suction pads and hydraulic rams to ensure balanced loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single tensioning point is used to secure the clamp, then the installation process is simple, but the load distribution becomes uneven due to the capstan effect
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp body is divided into multiple independent tensioning segments (first, second, third, and fourth tensioning points) distributed around the circumference. Each segment can be tensioned independently to apply radial loading at multiple locations, preventing the uneven load distribution caused by the capstan effect while maintaining installation simplicity through modular tensioning bars and bolts.
2Force
If the applied tension is increased to compensate for capstan effect losses, then the clamping force is sufficient, but stronger and stiffer components are required
Solution Approach 1:
By distributing the tensioning force across multiple segments (tensioning points) around the clamp circumference, the total clamping force is achieved through cumulative contribution from each segment. This eliminates the need to over-tension a single point, allowing the use of lighter, more flexible components that can better accommodate riser diameter changes while still providing sufficient overall clamping force.
Solution Approach 2:
Each tensioning point applies force locally at its specific position around the clamp. The clamp body is designed with localized reinforcement at each tensioning point to handle the concentrated loads, rather than requiring the entire clamp structure to be uniformly strong and stiff. This allows optimal strength distribution matched to the actual load patterns.
3Strength
If the clamp is made stiffer to withstand higher forces, then the clamp strength increases, but the capacity to accommodate diameter changes is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented tensioning system allows each portion of the clamp to flex and adapt to local diameter variations independently. The clamp body can deform more freely between tensioning points, accommodating thermal expansion, contraction, and manufacturing tolerances of the riser without compromising overall structural integrity or clamping force.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method achieves a more even and reliable clamping force distribution, allowing the clamp to accommodate significant radial strain without excessive stressing, and can be adapted for various clamp configurations and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
A tool with hydraulic actuators applies a simultaneous and uniform radial load to each clamping component before securing the clamp to the tubular member
Implementation Method 2
using a frame with suction pads and hydraulic rams to ensure balanced loading
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to an installation method and a tool for installing a clamp onto a cylindrical member such as a pipeline or riser. The method comprises the steps of placing the clamp around the tubular member, applying a radial load to the clamp and subsequently securing the loaded clamp to the tubular member.